Breaking Masculine Stereotypes: Douglas Pflug’s Story of Compassionate Leadership

In this inspiring episode, Aveline sits down with Douglas Pflug—elite coach, mentor, and retired police officer—to explore what it truly means to overcome adversity and live life on purpose. Doug shares powerful stories about conquering childhood illness, bullying, and PTSD, and reveals how finding his “granite” (core values) has enabled him to empower others to reclaim their voice. Tune in as they unpack vulnerability, resilience, leadership, and the life-changing impact of small acts of kindness for individuals and future generations.

Here’s a summary of what they discussed:

05:12 Childhood illness fostered early resilience.

09:58 Traumatic events shaped Doug’s service mindset.

13:06 The power of vulnerability in leadership and growth.

21:06 A single thank-you card reignited Doug’s purpose.

42:58 Advice for supporting youth through bullying and self-doubt.

…and so much more.

Enjoy! ✨

YouTube Episode:

Here's some information about our guest, Doug:

Douglas P. Pflug

Executive Leadership Coach | Author | Speaker | Mentor | Builder

Douglas P. Pflug is a nationally recognised leader, coach, and mentor with a distinguished career spanning over 35 years in leadership, law enforcement, and high-performance coaching. A retired Sergeant with the Guelph Police Service and former Provincial Coordinator at the Ontario Police College, Doug has shaped countless leaders through his unwavering commitment to excellence, resilience, and community service.

Doug is the founder of IRONWILL 360° Leadership, an executive coaching and mentorship platform empowering leaders to rise through the ranks by cultivating elite leadership traits. His expertise is captured in his acclaimed books, Finding Your Granite: My Four Cornerstones of Personal Leadership, Ironwill 360° Leadership: Moving Forward – 12 Emerging Trends for Forward-Thinking Leaders, and his latest release, A Blueprint to Level 5 Unicorn Leadership. Each book reflects Doug’s passion for developing resilient, authentic leaders who balance professional will with personal humility.

As an elite strength and conditioning coach, Doug has mentored athletes across the NHL, AHL, NCAA, OHL, and national and provincial levels. He served as the Guelph Storm Hockey Club’s Strength and Conditioning Coach for 27 years, winning four Ontario Hockey League Championships. His leadership extended to Wrestle Canada, the University of Guelph Gryphon Football Team, and the Guelph Wellington Buns Master Rollers Special Olympics Floor Hockey Team, achieving three consecutive Canadian Championships and three silver medals at the World Special Olympics Winter Games.

Doug’s dedication to service extends beyond the arena. He and his wife Michelle, an internationally recognised forensic expert, established the Gryphon Football Pflug Family Community Service Award, honouring athletes who exemplify leadership and community commitment. He has been a proud supporter of the Ontario Law Enforcement Torch Run and Special Olympics Canada since 1989.

A Cornell-certified executive leader and McMaster-educated HR professional, Doug combines academic excellence with frontline experience. His accolades include being named one of Canada’s 123 Remarkable Canadians, the Sovereign Medal for Volunteers, the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal, the Governor General’s Police Exemplary Medal, and the City of Guelph Mayor’s Award for outstanding contributions.

Today, Doug continues to inspire through keynote speaking, leadership development seminars, and his Mental Wisdom Podcast, where he explores resilience, mindfulness, and the intersection of technology and leadership. He splits his time between Boblo Island and Guelph with his wife Michelle and service dog Arizona “Zoe,” enjoying boating, exercise, and charitable work.

Doug’s leadership philosophy is best captured in his personal mantra: "Leading with my best self, modelling the behaviuor I expect from others, and creating an environment where others can thrive."

Here’s how you can connect with Doug:

website: www.RiseUpAndExcel.ca

X: @Ironwill360

The purpose of the Mission Activated podcast is to inspire people with the stories of those who are activated on their mission and living a life of purpose, passion, and alignment. Being in business is not just about money—it’s about bringing our genius and gifts to the world to impact others.

If you'd like to get in touch, please contact us at contact@6starleaders.com